20 Songs About The Woods

As I wander through the woods, I find myself enveloped in a world that feels both ancient and alive. The rustling leaves whisper secrets of the past, while the dappled sunlight dances through the branches, creating a tapestry of light and shadow. There’s something magical about the woods—a realm where time seems to stand still, and nature’s beauty unfolds in every direction.

In this playlist, I want to share with you 20 songs that capture the essence of this enchanting environment. Each track resonates with the spirit of the woods, evoking feelings of adventure, solitude, and reflection.

1. “Wandering Alone” by Belle & Sebastian

“Wandering Alone” is a track by Belle & Sebastian from their album Storytelling. The song paints a picture of solitude and introspection as the protagonist roams the woods, reflecting on past relationships and personal struggles. The lyrics describe a man who finds solace in the woods, away from the world he knew as a boy, and the city where his lover resides. The woods serve as a refuge, concealing him from the light and allowing him to escape the pressures of society. The song explores themes of love, regret, and the desire for redemption, as the protagonist hopes for a chance to amend past mistakes and fears the traps set by others that could ensnare him and his lover.

2. “In the Woods Somewhere” by Hozier

Hozier’s “In the Woods Somewhere” is a haunting and atmospheric song that delves into themes of grief, mortality, and self-discovery. The narrative follows a protagonist who ventures into the woods, encountering a wounded fox and a mysterious creature. The woods symbolize a place of introspection and confrontation with one’s inner demons. The song’s lyrics are rich in symbolism, depicting a struggle with mental health and the search for the will to live after experiencing profound loss. The protagonist ultimately finds a renewed sense of purpose and strength to continue living, despite the darkness that surrounds him. The song’s eerie and dark instrumentals complement its introspective and symbolic lyrics.

3. “Sweetheart Tree” by Henry Mancini

“Sweetheart Tree” is a classic song composed by Henry Mancini, known for its romantic and nostalgic qualities. The song is often associated with themes of love and nature, as it evokes imagery of a serene and idyllic setting in the woods. The lyrics celebrate the beauty and tranquility of nature, using the metaphor of a “sweetheart tree” to symbolize enduring love and cherished memories. Mancini’s composition is characterized by its melodic and gentle orchestration, making it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners who appreciate themes of romance and the natural world.

4. “Mountain Sound” by Of Monsters and Men

“Mountain Sound” by Of Monsters and Men is an energetic and folk-infused track that captures the spirit of escapism and adventure. The song tells the story of individuals seeking refuge in the wilderness, leaving behind their troubles and past mistakes. The lyrics emphasize the themes of freedom and camaraderie, as the protagonists run through the woods and embrace the harmony of nature. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious melody create an atmosphere of joy and liberation, encouraging listeners to find solace and peace in the great outdoors. The communal journey through the woods symbolizes a shared experience of overcoming personal challenges and finding unity in nature.

5. “Miles From Nowhere” by Cat Stevens

“Miles From Nowhere” by Cat Stevens is a reflective song about the journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. The lyrics convey a sense of solitude and introspection as the protagonist embarks on a metaphorical journey away from societal distractions. The song emphasizes the importance of taking life slowly and appreciating each moment. The imagery of climbing mountains and wandering through valleys and woods symbolizes the challenges and obstacles faced during this journey. These natural elements represent life’s highs and lows, requiring perseverance to overcome. The song touches on themes of freedom, self-reliance, and a deep appreciation for life, ultimately celebrating the journey itself rather than the destination.

6. “Dirty Paws” by Of Monsters and Men

“Dirty Paws” by Of Monsters and Men is a song rich in metaphor and storytelling, set in a fantastical world where animals and nature personify deeper themes. The forest setting is a classic element of fairy tales, symbolizing magic, danger, and transformation. The narrative involves various creatures, including a protagonist with “dirty paws,” who becomes involved in a conflict between bees and birds. This allegory can be interpreted as a commentary on war, territorial disputes, or societal issues. The song’s climax, where the protagonist and her friends defeat the queen bee, symbolizes overcoming oppressive forces. The lush instrumentation and melodic harmonies complement the mystical quality of the lyrics, inviting listeners to find their own meaning within the story.

7. “Trees” by Rush

Rush’s “Trees” is an allegorical song that explores themes of conflict, inequality, and the quest for justice. The lyrics depict a forest where maple and oak trees are embroiled in a struggle for sunlight. The maples feel oppressed by the towering oaks, leading them to form a union and demand equal rights. This metaphor reflects societal issues where marginalized groups fight for resources and opportunities. The resolution, where “the trees are all kept equal by hatchet, axe, and saw,” introduces a darker tone, suggesting that achieving equality can come at a significant cost. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of unresolved tensions and the importance of balanced solutions.

8. “Annie’s Song” by John Denver

“Annie’s Song” by John Denver is a tender ballad expressing deep affection and an intimate connection with a loved one. Written for Denver’s then-wife, Annie Martell, the song uses nature as a metaphor for the depth of his feelings. The lyrics compare love to various natural phenomena, such as “a night in the forest” and “a storm in the desert,” illustrating a love that is both peaceful and powerful. The song conveys a desire for unity and eternal companionship, emphasizing the all-encompassing nature of love. Denver’s use of hyperbolic language underscores the intensity of his devotion, making it a poignant expression of romantic and natural love.

9. “A Forest” by The Cure

“A Forest” by The Cure is a quintessential gothic rock track that delves into themes of pursuit and existential searching. Released as part of their Seventeen Seconds album, the song tells a vague story of a protagonist chasing after a girl in a forest, only to end in loss and realization that the girl was never there. The forest serves as a metaphor for the protagonist’s inner turmoil and the endless search for meaning or connection. The song’s haunting atmosphere is created through its pulsing drums and eerie guitar work, reflecting the isolation and anxiety inherent in the lyrics. Robert Smith’s vocals and the minimalist lyrics enhance the sense of being lost in an expansive, yet claustrophobic, forest, embodying a futile quest for something unattainable.

10. “Mer Girl” by Madonna

Madonna’s “Mer Girl” is a deeply introspective and haunting song from her Ray of Light album. It explores themes of loss, escape, and self-discovery as the protagonist flees from the overwhelming aspects of her life, including memories of her deceased mother and the demands of her daughter. The journey takes her through natural landscapes like forests and cemeteries, symbolizing her emotional state and the search for solace. The song’s vivid imagery, such as rain hiding her tears and the earth enveloping her, represents a cleansing yet sorrowful experience. “Mer Girl” captures the relentless pursuit of self amidst the shadows of loss and fear, with nature serving as both a refuge and a reminder of mortality.

11. “Out of the Woods” by Foals

“Out of the Woods” by Foals is a song about emerging from a difficult period in life. The lyrics and music convey a sense of relief and newfound clarity as the protagonist moves beyond challenging experiences. The metaphor of the woods represents the struggles and confusion faced during tough times, and the act of coming out of the woods symbolizes overcoming these obstacles and reaching a place of understanding and peace. The song’s dynamic instrumentation and emotive vocals emphasize the transition from darkness to light, capturing the essence of personal growth and resilience.

12. “Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran

“Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran is a vibrant and energetic track that blends rock with electronic pop elements. Inspired by the fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood, the song uses the metaphor of a hunt in the woods to explore themes of desire and pursuit. The lyrics depict a sense of adventure and the thrill of the chase, with the forest setting enhancing the primal and mysterious undertones. The song’s catchy melody and innovative use of technology, such as drum machines and synthesizers, contributed to its success, making it a staple of the 1980s music scene. The accompanying music video, heavily played on MTV, further cemented its popularity, showcasing the band’s experimental and futuristic style.

13. “Playing Possum” by Carly Simon

“Playing Possum” by Carly Simon is the title track from her fifth studio album. The song explores themes of self-reflection and the passage of time, as Simon grapples with turning thirty and the changes in her life. The metaphor of “playing possum” suggests a state of inaction or feigned indifference, as she questions whether she is merely going through the motions or preparing for a new phase in life. While not explicitly about the woods, the song’s introspective nature and exploration of personal growth resonate with the themes of solitude and contemplation often associated with woodland settings. The album itself marked a shift in Simon’s musical style, incorporating more rock elements and showcasing her evolving artistry.

14. “Mud Slide Slim” by James Taylor

“Mud Slide Slim” is a track from James Taylor’s album Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon. The song captures the essence of Taylor’s folk-rock style, with lyrics that reflect on life’s journey and the search for meaning. The title character, Mud Slide Slim, represents a laid-back, introspective persona navigating the complexities of life. The song’s imagery evokes a sense of wandering through natural landscapes, akin to a journey through the woods, where one encounters both challenges and moments of clarity. Taylor’s soothing vocals and acoustic instrumentation create a calming atmosphere, inviting listeners to reflect on their own paths and the simplicity found in nature.

15. “Wonderland” by Natalia Kills

“Wonderland” by Natalia Kills is a pop song that uses the metaphor of a fantastical world to explore themes of disillusionment and the pursuit of unattainable dreams. While not directly about the woods, the song’s references to fairy tale imagery and a sense of being lost in a surreal environment align with the motifs of exploration and discovery often found in woodland narratives. The song critiques the idealized notions of love and happiness, suggesting that the pursuit of these fantasies can lead to a sense of entrapment rather than fulfillment. Its upbeat tempo and catchy melody contrast with the darker themes, creating a compelling juxtaposition.

16. “Out of the Woods” by Taylor Swift

“Out of the Woods” by Taylor Swift is a song that metaphorically uses the woods to represent a tumultuous relationship and the uncertainty that comes with it. The lyrics recount the ups and downs of a past romance, with the woods symbolizing the confusion and challenges faced along the way. The repeated question of whether they are “out of the woods” reflects the anxiety and anticipation of reaching a place of stability and understanding. The song’s driving beat and evocative imagery capture the emotional intensity of navigating through difficult times, ultimately conveying a sense of relief and clarity as the protagonist emerges from the metaphorical woods. This track is part of Swift’s album 1989, which marked her transition from country to pop music.

17. “Man of the Woods” by Justin Timberlake

“Man of the Woods” is the title track from Justin Timberlake’s fifth studio album, which blends elements of pop, funk, and Americana. The song and album were inspired by Timberlake’s family, particularly his son Silas, whose name means “of the forest” in Latin. Despite its title suggesting a rustic, nature-focused theme, the song is more about Timberlake’s personal life and relationships, especially his love for his wife and son. The track features breezy doo-wop harmonies and a chirpy guitar cadence, creating a light-hearted and playful vibe. It reflects Timberlake’s attempt to merge his pop roots with a more grounded, earthy aesthetic, though it is more about domestic bliss than wilderness survival.

18. “Call Me Mellow” by Tears For Fears

“Call Me Mellow” by Tears For Fears is a song from their 2004 album Everybody Loves a Happy Ending. The song features a blend of pop and rock elements, with lyrics that explore themes of love, transformation, and self-discovery. The imagery of roaming the forest and the idea of wildness are used metaphorically to describe a relationship that is both invigorating and complex. The song captures the essence of youthful energy and the bittersweet nature of growing up, as well as the conflicting emotions that come with intense personal connections.

19. “The Seventh Seal” by Scott Walker

“The Seventh Seal” by Scott Walker is a song inspired by the Ingmar Bergman film of the same name. The track is a dramatic retelling of the film’s narrative, which involves a knight playing chess with Death during the Black Plague. The song’s lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and existential themes, exploring the search for meaning and the inevitability of death. The forest setting in the song symbolizes the unknown and the journey of life, where the knight and his companions face their ultimate fate. Walker’s powerful vocals and orchestral arrangement create a haunting and reflective atmosphere, mirroring the film’s philosophical depth.

20. “Islands” by Bonnie Tyler & Mike Oldfield

“Islands” is a song by Mike Oldfield, featuring vocals by Bonnie Tyler. It appears on Oldfield’s 1987 album of the same name. The song uses the metaphor of islands to describe the feeling of isolation and the longing for connection. The lyrics depict two lovers as islands, separated by a vast sea but never too far from each other. The forest imagery in the song is used to convey the idea of being lost and finding one’s way, symbolizing the journey of love and the challenges faced in maintaining a relationship. Tyler’s powerful vocals add an emotional depth to the song, enhancing its themes of passion and longing.

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Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.